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Parents of murdered man issue appeal

The parents of murdered Gateshead man John Roberts are appealing for information into their son's death - two months since he died.

Mr Roberts, who was 32, was found dead inside his home in Park Terrace on Sunday December 16, 2012. He died as a result of a serious head injury.

This weekend it is two months since Mr Roberts was murdered and his parents, David and Jennifer Roberts, have been speaking about their grief.

The following statement is released on their behalf.

"It's been two months since John was murdered in his home. And it hurts us as much now as it did when it first happened.

"Everyday that goes by we think about John and it's horrible knowing that who ever killed our son is still out there and walking around, living their life as normal.

"John didn't deserve what happened to him. He was a son, a good friend, a cousin, a nephew and a father. And he is missed incredibly by everyone who knew him.

"John was well liked and well respected. We all miss his vitality, his energy and his sense of humour.

"We were very pleased with the turn out at his funeral - friends and family who attended gave donations amounting to over £400 which will be donated to the Sir Bobby Foundation in John's memory.

"We are making a direct appeal, as parents, to anyone who knows who killed our son to come forward and share information with the police.

"You may not have seen John on that weekend, or may not know anything directly about what happened to him, but you may have noticed someone behaving oddly or strangely since December 16 and this could be vital to police. Please report it.

"If you've heard a rumour, or people talking about what happened to John - please pass this on to police. Don't think that what you know isn't important or assume that someone else will tell the police. Pick up the phone and let the police know whatever you can.

"People can pass information on anonymously. The police don't need your information or your details - just any information you might have that could help

"Please help us bring the person, or people, who brutally murdered our son to justice and help us as a family bring some peace and closure."

Detective Superintendent Roger Ford said: "This case is very much still active and we still have detectives working on this and making enquiries.

"We are carrying out a number of forensic enquiries and the results of these could prove vital in the future of this investigation.

"I'd directly appeal to the person, or people, who murdered John. John was a son, a brother and a friend. Imagine one of your friends being killed in this way and the hurt and pain his family and friends have been through.

"If you know anything at all about this murder, pass it to police. Do it in person at your local station, over the phone - anonymously if you wish - or do it through Crimestoppers.

"It doesn't matter how you do it - just that you share anything that could help us catch those responsible."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the major crime team on 101 ext 69191 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Anyone who passes information onto Crimestoppers that leads to the arrest and charge of whoever is responsible for the murder of John Roberts could be eligible for a cash reward.